The 2007 FT-HS is a hybrid sports car that debuted at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. The vehicle features all the essential sports car elements with an impressive hybrid powertrain. The design is a result of the Toyota’s California-based Advanced Product Strategy Group answer to the question “What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?”
They have managed to create a mid-priced sports car that combines the best of both worlds; environmentalists will love the hybrid aspect and other eco-friendly features such as remarkable fuel efficiency and ultra-low emissions. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the speed and performance achieved by the high-output powertrain. This is one of the exotic sports cars that you may actually be able to afford.
Power Under The Hood
The 2007 FT-HS boasts impressive acceleration thanks to its powerful V6, 3.5-litre front engine. Drives can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in a remarkable 4 seconds flat. The result of pairing with a high-tech sports hybrid system is a target power output of approximately 400 hp.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Saturn Sky
Dynamism, pace and agility are the prime features of the Saturn Sky roadster, which signals a new direction for the Saturn brand. First seen at the North American International Road Show in 2005, the Sky is the first vehicle to boast the new look which is to be a feature of Saturn’s entire product range in the future.
“Building on its accomplishments in customer sales and service satisfaction, Saturn is introducing a bold new product design to our vehicles,” stated Jill Lajdziak, Saturn General Manager. “For Saturn, the Sky is not the limit. It's only the beginning.”
Harmony through technology
The original inspiration for the Sky roadster came from the Vauxhall VX Lightning Concept, designed at the GM Advanced Design Studio in Birmingham, UK. Its exterior is a combination of taut, sharp lines and fluid surfaces. It features a powerful front end, including a chrome bar carrying an integrated Saturn logo.The technological sophistication which is key to the Sky’s image is also hinted at in the wide stance and short overhangs, with a convertible roof which folds neatly into the rear compartment. The headlamps feature halogen low beams and reflector optic halogen main beams, rounding off the exterior look.This same design concept is maintained in the Sky’s interior, with driver-centred displays and controls. Attention to detail can be found in the piano black and chrome finish, optional leather seats, and fine, jewel-like details on the lighting controls and HVAC.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
The fourth generation of Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, mainly produced in United States, was officially released at the North American International Auto Show in early 2007 (was held from 7-th to 21-th of January). The 2 door and 4 passenger fron-wheel drive Spyder model comes out from the GS with a 16 valve, 162 hp 2.4 L engine and more powerful GT model designation with 24 valve, 3.8 L engines which produce 260 hp along muscular bodylines. The GT models offer manual six-speed transmission or five-speed automatic Sportronic® one. Both model designations use the SOHC (Single overhead camshaft) based engines which allow to reach higher speed. In SOHC engines, the cam operates the valves directly.The 4G69 SOHC engine used in Eclipse GS SpyderBuilt in Japan, this engine has been used in Mitsubishi Eclipse (2005-onwards), Mitsubishi Lancer (2004-onwards), Mitsubishi Galant (2004-onwards), Mitsubishi Outlander (2004-onwards). It's maximal output is reached at 5750 rpm. 4G69 engines uses MFI fuel injection and MIVEC™ Variable valve timing. Bear in mind that variable valve timing doesn't mean economy in this case. Average fuel consumption sits somewhere around 13 litres/100 km.
The 6G75 SOHC engine used in Eclipse GT SpyderUsed in Mitsubishi models which include Eclipse (2005-onwards), Galant (2004-onwards), Montero (2003-onwards), Endeavor (2003-onwards), 380 (2005-onwards), a 3828 cc engine with 90 mm stroke, 95 mm bore produces max 263 hp. Unlike hardtop version, Spyder models' engines produce 260 hp.Design and dimensionsEven though this Mitsubishi with 2575 mm wheelbase is a small car, it is 4565 mm in lenght, 1835 mm in width, and 1381 mm in height. If equipped with 18“ wheels, it has 1389 mm in height. If you look at the interior, you'll see grate progress since last Spyder version. Clear dashboard lines in the wave-style affect very friendly. Gear shift is small which helps to switch between gears very fast. Controls such as audio system, climate control, etc, are positioned in the „user-friendly style“ with focus on ergonomic access. There's no way how to describe design through words; You should go for a test-drive in my opinion. Spyder's turning radius is more than 12 meters which makes some actions very difficult especially in city-traffic.
The 6G75 SOHC engine used in Eclipse GT SpyderUsed in Mitsubishi models which include Eclipse (2005-onwards), Galant (2004-onwards), Montero (2003-onwards), Endeavor (2003-onwards), 380 (2005-onwards), a 3828 cc engine with 90 mm stroke, 95 mm bore produces max 263 hp. Unlike hardtop version, Spyder models' engines produce 260 hp.Design and dimensionsEven though this Mitsubishi with 2575 mm wheelbase is a small car, it is 4565 mm in lenght, 1835 mm in width, and 1381 mm in height. If equipped with 18“ wheels, it has 1389 mm in height. If you look at the interior, you'll see grate progress since last Spyder version. Clear dashboard lines in the wave-style affect very friendly. Gear shift is small which helps to switch between gears very fast. Controls such as audio system, climate control, etc, are positioned in the „user-friendly style“ with focus on ergonomic access. There's no way how to describe design through words; You should go for a test-drive in my opinion. Spyder's turning radius is more than 12 meters which makes some actions very difficult especially in city-traffic.
Mazda 6 MPS
The new Mazda 6 MPS is the flagship model of the highly acclaimed Mazda 6 range, and is also the most powerful production sedan ever manufactured by Mazda. The brand’s main aim in producing the new model was to take their reputation for dynamism and high performance to a new level. The model is fitted with a turbo-charged MZR 2.3-litre DISI engine, all-wheel drive, and a chassis which has been upgraded to accommodate the additional power and torque offered by the Mazda 6 MPS.The increased power is provided mainly by direct petrol injection and the turbocharger, resulting in 256 bhp at 5,500 rpm, and peak torque of 280 lb/ft at just 3,000 rpm. The outcome of this extra power is that the Mazda 6 MPS can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 6.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of around 150 mph, yet still managing to achieve a fuel consumption of around 27.7 mpg. Power is transferred to the road through a brand new 6-speed manual gearbox, featuring wider gear ratios to allow for full exploitation of the extra power.
The Mazda 6 MPS’s Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive System is designed to adjust to both driving surface and situation, and allocated up to 50% of the vehicle’s engine power to the rear two wheels as and when requires. In total, the system employs three different all-wheel drive set-ups, and the correct one is chosen by the engine control module, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on the road. The three settings are “Normal”, “Sport” and “Stability”, the latter optimised for slippery surfaces such as ice and snow.A range of high-performance modifications have been made to the exterior of the traditional Mazda 6 for the Mazda 6 MPS model, complementing its sporty personality and up-rated performance credentials. The bonnet is endowed with a “power dome”, and other features include an increased air intake, a rear bumper with integrated diffuser, and a boot lid spoiler to provide increased down-force.Inside, the Mazda 6 MPS is dressed in unique fabrics and top quality materials. The cabin represents a combination of style, comfort, functionality and sportiness. Special features include a speedometer which has been scaled to 280 km/h (150 mph), 3-spoke leather steering wheel, leather gear shifter, aluminium pedals and bucket-style front seats. All the new interior features introduced in the Mazda 6 range’s 2005 facelift are also included as standard, including larger armrests, vertical interior handles on the doors, dark titanium surfacing for the centre console, and high-quality black sound system controls.
The Mazda 6 MPS’s Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive System is designed to adjust to both driving surface and situation, and allocated up to 50% of the vehicle’s engine power to the rear two wheels as and when requires. In total, the system employs three different all-wheel drive set-ups, and the correct one is chosen by the engine control module, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on the road. The three settings are “Normal”, “Sport” and “Stability”, the latter optimised for slippery surfaces such as ice and snow.A range of high-performance modifications have been made to the exterior of the traditional Mazda 6 for the Mazda 6 MPS model, complementing its sporty personality and up-rated performance credentials. The bonnet is endowed with a “power dome”, and other features include an increased air intake, a rear bumper with integrated diffuser, and a boot lid spoiler to provide increased down-force.Inside, the Mazda 6 MPS is dressed in unique fabrics and top quality materials. The cabin represents a combination of style, comfort, functionality and sportiness. Special features include a speedometer which has been scaled to 280 km/h (150 mph), 3-spoke leather steering wheel, leather gear shifter, aluminium pedals and bucket-style front seats. All the new interior features introduced in the Mazda 6 range’s 2005 facelift are also included as standard, including larger armrests, vertical interior handles on the doors, dark titanium surfacing for the centre console, and high-quality black sound system controls.
Lexus SC 430
The Lexus SC 430 has been re-designed for 2006, and now features new levels of poise, performance, power and style. The brand new front end includes revamped headlamps and a larger grille and bumper to add even more weight to the model’s already purposeful stance. Also visible is the arrowhead logo, also sported by both the GS and IS. The SC 430 is therefore clearly marked as the latest member of the brand’s next generation of vehicles.The new, twin-barrel headlamps are situated higher than the grille, giving the SC 430 a ground-hugging character, and emphasising this model’s ability to cross continents. The headlamps employ High Density Discharge technology, giving a width and clarity in the distribution of the light. Intelligent Adaptive Front-Lighting System (I-AFS) is also used to control the direction of the beam, swivelling the lamps by up to 15 degrees through cornering. The front air vents feature attractive lateral centre bars in chrome, updated indicator lights and new, glossy 18-inch alloy wheels. At the rear of the SC 430, the two-step tail-lights feature horizontally aligned rear lamps as well as a high-intensity LED, which reinforces the legibility of the rear number plate.In terms of options, the latest SC 430 comes in a choice of nine different colour schemes, with two brand new options (Red Metallic and Premium Brown) and three new standard schemes (Premium Silver, Grey metallic and Premium Beige).The interior also features a number of subtle changes, including a revised instrument cluster and new colour combinations for the A pillar and head lining. A brand new interior colour scheme, Camel, is added to the existing Ecru and Black schemes. The range of finishes has been extended, to include two wood grain options – medium brown Walnut and dark maple Bird’s Eye.
2007 Jaguar XK
The release of the 2007 Jaguar XK marks the beginning of a new era for the manufacturer in terms of engineering and design. Its predecessor, which went out of production in June 2005, was the fastest selling Jaguar sports car in the marque’s history, and the challenge for the 2007 team was to build upon that success. The new XK features extraordinary engineering which will delight even the most discerning Jaguar customer, including aluminium chassis, high-tech transmission and luxurious interior. The new model was launched in spring 2006, firmly placing Jaguar as the world leader in lightweight vehicle production, whilst guarding the manufacturer’s reputation as a producer of stunning, beautifully designed cars
Sports styling
The 2007 XK is noticeably sportier than its predecessor, yet retains the classic Jaguar characteristics of elegance, modesty and maturity. With the hard top in place, it resembles a classic low-slung coupe. The front-wing power vents have become a new styling signature for Jaguar, and most recently featured on the XJ Super V8 Portfolio. Further homage to models gone by is paid by the grille opening, rear liftback and hood power-bulge, all of which echo the Jaguar E-type.The interior of the new XK carries modern, luxurious materials and high-quality craftsmanship. Features include finely stitched leather and high-tech metallic trim finishes. The layout of the cockpit is driver-centred and sporty, including body-hugging sports seats, which are set very low to increase the ‘sports car’ feel.Like the old model, the 2007 XK is available in a two-door coupe or two-door convertible setup, each model having been developed separately under the one design program.
Sports styling
The 2007 XK is noticeably sportier than its predecessor, yet retains the classic Jaguar characteristics of elegance, modesty and maturity. With the hard top in place, it resembles a classic low-slung coupe. The front-wing power vents have become a new styling signature for Jaguar, and most recently featured on the XJ Super V8 Portfolio. Further homage to models gone by is paid by the grille opening, rear liftback and hood power-bulge, all of which echo the Jaguar E-type.The interior of the new XK carries modern, luxurious materials and high-quality craftsmanship. Features include finely stitched leather and high-tech metallic trim finishes. The layout of the cockpit is driver-centred and sporty, including body-hugging sports seats, which are set very low to increase the ‘sports car’ feel.Like the old model, the 2007 XK is available in a two-door coupe or two-door convertible setup, each model having been developed separately under the one design program.
Infiniti Coupe Concept
The 2006 North American International Auto Show saw the unveiling of a dramatic new concept car, the Infiniti Coupe Concept. At the same auto show, Infiniti also showed their new luxury SUV, the 2006 FX45, equipped with a V8 engine, and the FX35, carrying a V6.The Coupe Concept follows the Infiniti tradition of combining high performance engineering with vibrant design. This tradition has helped to cement Infiniti as one of the major brands in the luxury vehicle market, and their 2006 model takes their reputation to the next level.
The exact details of the Coupe Concept remain a mystery, with very little technical data having been published at the time of writing. Given than almost every Nissan/Infiniti is powered by the VQ35 engine, it is likely that the Coupe Concept will house a version of this powerhouse. The fact that the model is being heralded as the next G35 suggests that power output will be in the region of 300.
Styling
The Coupe Concept’s exterior styling features a full-length glass roof, front fenders and hood which are modulated, a low front spoiler and enormous projector headlamps. Other striking features include polished metal-look paint, exterior rear view mirrors which feature compact camera technology and huge 20 inch, nine-spoke aluminium alloys.The flanks of the Coupe Concept look remarkably similar to those found on the marque’s G35 model, with the addition of a body kit. The overall shape and size of the back 3/4 windows is similar to the production G series, the only change being a slightly more pronounced tilt. The sweeping lines and large rear fenders also echo the G35, and the rear lamps, like those at the front, resemble those found on the M sedan.Inside, the Coupe Concept boasts a performance-geared cockpit, yet provides luxurious space for passengers with a “double wave” instrument panel and enormous, violet-lit gauges and a dramatic centre console. Textured aluminium trim and accents bring an extra sense of crispness and warmth to the Infiniti’s interior.
The exact details of the Coupe Concept remain a mystery, with very little technical data having been published at the time of writing. Given than almost every Nissan/Infiniti is powered by the VQ35 engine, it is likely that the Coupe Concept will house a version of this powerhouse. The fact that the model is being heralded as the next G35 suggests that power output will be in the region of 300.
Styling
The Coupe Concept’s exterior styling features a full-length glass roof, front fenders and hood which are modulated, a low front spoiler and enormous projector headlamps. Other striking features include polished metal-look paint, exterior rear view mirrors which feature compact camera technology and huge 20 inch, nine-spoke aluminium alloys.The flanks of the Coupe Concept look remarkably similar to those found on the marque’s G35 model, with the addition of a body kit. The overall shape and size of the back 3/4 windows is similar to the production G series, the only change being a slightly more pronounced tilt. The sweeping lines and large rear fenders also echo the G35, and the rear lamps, like those at the front, resemble those found on the M sedan.Inside, the Coupe Concept boasts a performance-geared cockpit, yet provides luxurious space for passengers with a “double wave” instrument panel and enormous, violet-lit gauges and a dramatic centre console. Textured aluminium trim and accents bring an extra sense of crispness and warmth to the Infiniti’s interior.
Honda S2000
The S2000, with its combination of aggressive racetrack performance and daily functionality, is the icon of the Honda marque. The 2006 version retains the best features of its predecessor, but has been refined and updated for improved performance.The 2006 S2000 now comes with an electronically controlled “Drive by Wire” (DBW) Throttle System, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), headrest speakers as standard, an exterior thermometer, maintenance minder system, a distinctive alloy wheel design and an upgraded console and seat setup.
According to John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc, “It’s a car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, and it represents the ultimate expression of the fun-to-drive characteristic found in all Honda’s vehicles.”
Styling and features
The S2000 comes with a powered convertible top as standard, along with 17-inch aluminium alloys, leather trim seats and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps. Options include a hardtop and XMO Satellite Radio.The interior has been overhauled for 2006, including a new seat and console design. The digital gauges are racecar style, and echoes of Formula 1 can be seen in the driver-oriented controls. An AM/FM stereo and CD player, electric windows, central locking and keyless entry are standard. The maintenance minder system advises the driver of service intervals, basing its information on oil condition and road conditions, not on standard mileage or time deadlines.
According to John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc, “It’s a car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, and it represents the ultimate expression of the fun-to-drive characteristic found in all Honda’s vehicles.”
Styling and features
The S2000 comes with a powered convertible top as standard, along with 17-inch aluminium alloys, leather trim seats and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps. Options include a hardtop and XMO Satellite Radio.The interior has been overhauled for 2006, including a new seat and console design. The digital gauges are racecar style, and echoes of Formula 1 can be seen in the driver-oriented controls. An AM/FM stereo and CD player, electric windows, central locking and keyless entry are standard. The maintenance minder system advises the driver of service intervals, basing its information on oil condition and road conditions, not on standard mileage or time deadlines.
2007 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible
The Ford Special Vehicle Team (or SVT for short) has worked together with track legend Carroll Shelby on the production of the brand new GT500, calling it “a modern interpretation of the Shelby Mustang of the 60s”. Shelby himself was brought to the launch at the Cobo Arena in one of these new vehicles. The launch was timed perfectly to rival the Camaro and Challenger concepts revealed by the marque’s two Detroit competitors.
The first Mustang to be tweaked by Shelby came in the mid 1960s, with his production of the GT-350R model. The range later came to include the GT-500KR (the so-called “King of the Road”), boasting a 428 cu-in Cobra Jet V8 engine. More than 14,000 Shelby Mustangs were purchased until the range was discontinued in 1970.A number of “hot” Mustangs were produced in the 1990s by Ford’s SVT, but the consensus was that these were just not as good as the Shelby versions. With Shelby back in the fold as senior consultant on the GT500, SVT are left to concentrate on the engineering side. The new GT500 is available both as a convertible and a coupe, and boasts a 5.4 litre super-charged V8 powerplant, producing 475bhp. Transmission is through a 6-speed manual gearbox, mirroring the set-up in the Mustang FR500C racer. SVT have improved and fine-tuned the shock absorbers, anti-roll bars, springs and brakes, making use of a number of FR500C components.As ever, the new Shelby Mustang does away with the pony motif, replacing it with the well-known Cobra badge. There are a number of subtle hints which suggest the influence of the original Shelby models, such as the widened grille openings to the front, the slant of the headlights, the bulge of the bonnet, the spoiler and the wheel caps which display SVT logos. Again in deference to the original range of Shelby Mustangs, the new GT500 convertible does not feature the full-length white stripes which are found on the coupe version.Inside, the cockpit is suitably dressed, with high-bolstered sports seats, pale instrument dials, and high-quality aluminium trim. The decision has been taken to move the speedometer and tachometer to improve driver information access. The interior leather upholstery is available either in charcoal black, or a combination of charcoal black and crimson red. Both colour schemes feature the cobra logo on the seat backs.Fans of the muscle car genre will be pleased to hear that the GT500 is only the first of a number of high-performance Mustang variants in the pipeline. According to one company spokesperson, “The GT500 points to a brand new era in Ford’s performance future.”
The first Mustang to be tweaked by Shelby came in the mid 1960s, with his production of the GT-350R model. The range later came to include the GT-500KR (the so-called “King of the Road”), boasting a 428 cu-in Cobra Jet V8 engine. More than 14,000 Shelby Mustangs were purchased until the range was discontinued in 1970.A number of “hot” Mustangs were produced in the 1990s by Ford’s SVT, but the consensus was that these were just not as good as the Shelby versions. With Shelby back in the fold as senior consultant on the GT500, SVT are left to concentrate on the engineering side. The new GT500 is available both as a convertible and a coupe, and boasts a 5.4 litre super-charged V8 powerplant, producing 475bhp. Transmission is through a 6-speed manual gearbox, mirroring the set-up in the Mustang FR500C racer. SVT have improved and fine-tuned the shock absorbers, anti-roll bars, springs and brakes, making use of a number of FR500C components.As ever, the new Shelby Mustang does away with the pony motif, replacing it with the well-known Cobra badge. There are a number of subtle hints which suggest the influence of the original Shelby models, such as the widened grille openings to the front, the slant of the headlights, the bulge of the bonnet, the spoiler and the wheel caps which display SVT logos. Again in deference to the original range of Shelby Mustangs, the new GT500 convertible does not feature the full-length white stripes which are found on the coupe version.Inside, the cockpit is suitably dressed, with high-bolstered sports seats, pale instrument dials, and high-quality aluminium trim. The decision has been taken to move the speedometer and tachometer to improve driver information access. The interior leather upholstery is available either in charcoal black, or a combination of charcoal black and crimson red. Both colour schemes feature the cobra logo on the seat backs.Fans of the muscle car genre will be pleased to hear that the GT500 is only the first of a number of high-performance Mustang variants in the pipeline. According to one company spokesperson, “The GT500 points to a brand new era in Ford’s performance future.”
2007 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
Apparently, you can tell a lot about a person’s personality by the type of car they choose to drive. If this is the case, owning a Ferrari speaks volumes! If you’re looking for the ultimate in sports car luxury, look no further than the 2007 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. This vehicle first appeared at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, and it replaces Ferrari’s 456M GT/GTA coupe. The model is named after a coachbuilder named Sergio Scaglietti who spent many years working with Enzo Ferrari when the company was first established.
All-Aluminum Construction
One of the most notable features of this vehicle is the fact that the Scaglietti is the company’s first V-12 car built with an all-aluminum space body and frame. In addition to the exterior components, this model’s interior is even constructed of aluminum components.
Unique Exterior Styling
The 2007 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti contains clean lines with a few details such as the scalloped, concave flanks similar to the Pininfarina-styled 375 MM model. The Scaglietti features a teardrop profile with a cockpit that is located much further back in the vehicle than in previous models. It contains a rear-mounted differential and gearbox and an engine located behind the front axle.The company claims to have achieved a very normative weight distribution by moving the location of the fuel tank, battery and cockpit to the rear. In fact, Ferrari has indicated the vehicle has a weight distribution of 54 percent at the rear and 46 percent at the front. This is definitely unexpected for a front-engine vehicle.The Scaglietti also features integrated headlight covers that blend discreetly into the front fenders. Ferrari’s renowned logo is surrounded by a low mouth-shaped grille with horizontal bars. The 612 Scaglietti contains a 116.1-inch wheelbase and a long head. The vehicle is 193 inches long and 52.9 inches high which is 5.5 inches longer, taller and wider than the previous two-plus-two model. It also has an approximate curb weight of 4100 pounds.
All-Aluminum Construction
One of the most notable features of this vehicle is the fact that the Scaglietti is the company’s first V-12 car built with an all-aluminum space body and frame. In addition to the exterior components, this model’s interior is even constructed of aluminum components.
Unique Exterior Styling
The 2007 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti contains clean lines with a few details such as the scalloped, concave flanks similar to the Pininfarina-styled 375 MM model. The Scaglietti features a teardrop profile with a cockpit that is located much further back in the vehicle than in previous models. It contains a rear-mounted differential and gearbox and an engine located behind the front axle.The company claims to have achieved a very normative weight distribution by moving the location of the fuel tank, battery and cockpit to the rear. In fact, Ferrari has indicated the vehicle has a weight distribution of 54 percent at the rear and 46 percent at the front. This is definitely unexpected for a front-engine vehicle.The Scaglietti also features integrated headlight covers that blend discreetly into the front fenders. Ferrari’s renowned logo is surrounded by a low mouth-shaped grille with horizontal bars. The 612 Scaglietti contains a 116.1-inch wheelbase and a long head. The vehicle is 193 inches long and 52.9 inches high which is 5.5 inches longer, taller and wider than the previous two-plus-two model. It also has an approximate curb weight of 4100 pounds.
Chevrolet Camaro Concept
The Chevrolet Camaro Concept brings together eye-catching design and thrilling performance, updating one of the most popular coupes in history for a new generation of enthusiasts. The latest incarnation of this classic model now boasts a fuel-efficient power train, modern design and an elaborate chassis.
The latest Chevrolet remains a concept car at this stage, with the manufacturer looking to gauge opinions on the new version. The short deck, wide base and long hood of the Camaro Concept leave the observer in little doubt that this is a powerful sports car with exceptional performance. The statistics tell the full story: the car comes with a 400 bhp, V8 engine, 6-speed manual gearbox and an elaborate chassis with independent suspension for each of the Camaro’s four wheels.Despite its sporting pedigree, the Camaro Concept can be used as an everyday vehicle, with fuel-saving technology in the form of “Active Fuel Management” cylinder deactivation. In practice, fuel economy of over 30 mpg can be achieved in motorway driving.
The latest Chevrolet remains a concept car at this stage, with the manufacturer looking to gauge opinions on the new version. The short deck, wide base and long hood of the Camaro Concept leave the observer in little doubt that this is a powerful sports car with exceptional performance. The statistics tell the full story: the car comes with a 400 bhp, V8 engine, 6-speed manual gearbox and an elaborate chassis with independent suspension for each of the Camaro’s four wheels.Despite its sporting pedigree, the Camaro Concept can be used as an everyday vehicle, with fuel-saving technology in the form of “Active Fuel Management” cylinder deactivation. In practice, fuel economy of over 30 mpg can be achieved in motorway driving.
Acura RSX Type-S A-Spec
The Acura RSX Type-S is an exceptional car with a difficult job – to fill the shoes of the respected Integra which it replaced in July 2001. Upon its release, after-market suppliers began the frantic development and production of parts and accessories to allow owners to customise their vehicles. Whilst modifications can increase both style and fun, this can often be at the expense of the manufacturer’s warranty, as well as mechanical reliability.
Having realised that 40% of their RSX sales were for the Type-S, Acura took the decision, in 2002, to introduce their own range of factory-fitted performance modifications. Following the example set by Honda, the idea was to offer owners the chance to take the performance of their Type-S to the next level without encountering the pitfalls outlined above. In 2004, Acura introduced the name ‘A-Spec’ to signify its performance upgrade package, helping to feed enthusiasts’ demand for top class sporting machines.
Having realised that 40% of their RSX sales were for the Type-S, Acura took the decision, in 2002, to introduce their own range of factory-fitted performance modifications. Following the example set by Honda, the idea was to offer owners the chance to take the performance of their Type-S to the next level without encountering the pitfalls outlined above. In 2004, Acura introduced the name ‘A-Spec’ to signify its performance upgrade package, helping to feed enthusiasts’ demand for top class sporting machines.
Chevrolet Camaro
Unveiled in 2006, the Chevrolet Camaro Concept sports car embodies the best in performance and styling that has made the Camaros, the most sought after cars. The sophisticated design of the 2006 Chevrolet Camaro concept car is sure to take it places. This concept car captures the true spirit of Camaro, one which has made it the most popular coupe of all time. One thing that is bound to catch your attention immediately with the 2006 Chevrolet Camaro concept car is its long hood. Apart from making a style statement it also shows you the kind of attention that has been paid to the design. The short deck, wide stance and long hood make for greater aerodynamic performance. This is not all; there is a powerful 400 horsepower, six-speed manual transmission engine that is inside this futuristic
Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
The Mercedes-Benz SLR represents a renaissance in the high-performance sports car class, whilst celebrating its roots in the 1950s SLR racecars. The new SLR McLaren is an amalgamation of class-leading performance and power, and the classic features of Mercedes-Benz design. Constructed with carbon fibre unibody, crash structures and panels, the SLR houses a 617 bhp, 5.5-litre, super-charged V8 engine. It achieves 60 mph from standstill in less than 3.8 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of over 200 mph.
The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren in producing the SLR showcases the collective expertise, experience and design capabilities of the two marques. This is demonstrated not only in the outstanding performance of the SLR, but also in the exceptional levels of practicality and safety with which the super car is equipped. Formula 1 technology is in evidence in the strength and durability of the carbon fibre body, achieving a level of rigidity unheard of in road vehicles.Driver and passenger safety is enhanced by the SLR’s unique carbon fibre front crash structure, designed to absorb four to five times more energy on impact than similar steel structures.
V8 super-charged engine
Every V8 engine is super-charged, features intercoolers, and is manufactured by hand at Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance AMG facility in Affalterbach, Germany. The front mid-engine setup sees the engine mounted just behind the SLR’s front wheels. The need for an oil pan is eliminated by the inclusion of dry-sump lubrication, which allows the engine to be mounted as low in the vehicle’s frame as possible. This result is improved aerodynamics and an extremely low centre of gravity, enhancing handling. Another benefit of the dry-sump system is the eradication of the issue of oil starvation around tight corners.
The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren in producing the SLR showcases the collective expertise, experience and design capabilities of the two marques. This is demonstrated not only in the outstanding performance of the SLR, but also in the exceptional levels of practicality and safety with which the super car is equipped. Formula 1 technology is in evidence in the strength and durability of the carbon fibre body, achieving a level of rigidity unheard of in road vehicles.Driver and passenger safety is enhanced by the SLR’s unique carbon fibre front crash structure, designed to absorb four to five times more energy on impact than similar steel structures.
V8 super-charged engine
Every V8 engine is super-charged, features intercoolers, and is manufactured by hand at Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance AMG facility in Affalterbach, Germany. The front mid-engine setup sees the engine mounted just behind the SLR’s front wheels. The need for an oil pan is eliminated by the inclusion of dry-sump lubrication, which allows the engine to be mounted as low in the vehicle’s frame as possible. This result is improved aerodynamics and an extremely low centre of gravity, enhancing handling. Another benefit of the dry-sump system is the eradication of the issue of oil starvation around tight corners.
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